Question

Discuss what you would do in the situations described below. Remember that presence of mind comes out of a state of mental preparedness. If you have thought about possible problems or dangers, and about how to act in such situations, you have a better chance of dealing with such situations if they do arise.

• A small fire starts in your kitchen.
• A child starts to choke on a piece of food.
• An electrical appliance starts to hiss and gives out sparks.
• A bicycle knocks down a pedestrian.
• It rains continuously for more than twenty-four hours.
• A member of your family does not return home at the usual or expected time.

You may suggest other such situations.

Answer 1

• When a small fire starts in the kitchen, try switching off the gas knob and the gas cylinder, try to extinguish it with water and call for some help.
• When a child is choking on food, rub his back in upward and downward motions and take him to a doctor immediately if it doesn’t help.
• When an electrical appliance is producing sparks or hissing, switch off the electrical supply for the time being and call an electrician.
• When a bicycle knocks a pedestrian down, and it is not very serious, give him some water and help him get first aid. If it is serious, call an ambulance.
• When it rains continuously for 24 hours, try staying indoors and unclogging the nearby drainage system.
• When a family member is not returning at the usual time, wait for him/her; don’t panic. Call him/her to know his/her location and wait patiently. If they still don’t show up, contact the police.